Unusual Female Names From My Genealogy J-P
- Jemima
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"dove"Description:
Jemima, the name of a strong and beautiful Biblical daughter of Job, has long been among the chicest choices of aristocratic Brits, most recently ranking at #231 there in 2017. But despite its lovely sound and peaceful meaning, this attractive name hasn't ranked in the US Top 1000 since 1893, no doubt due to the problematic association with racial stereotyping, exemplified by the Aunt Jemima brand of pancakes.
- L'aigle
- Lavina
Origin:
English variation of Lavinia, LatinDescription:
This vintage name is still used today among the Amish.
- Leota
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"of the people"Description:
Leota is an antique name rarely used any more -- it was given to just 8 baby girls in the US in 2021. Some sources says Leota is a Native American name meaning blue flower.
- Lesceline
- Liegard
- Luitgarde
- Maret
Origin:
Estonian form of MargaretMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
A succinct Estonian form of classic Margaret.
- Mathilde
Origin:
French; Norwegian; Danish; Dutch; German, variation of MatildaMeaning:
"battle-mighty"Description:
Mathilde is even more popular in France than Matilda, a hipster favorite thanks to Michelle Williams and Heath Ledger, is here. And the French pronunciation, while confusing to English speakers, makes it softer and prettier than the version we're more familiar with. It's also very popular in Denmark and Noway, pronounced closer to the English variant.
- Mechtilde
Description:
Mechtilde is a feminine name with deep Germanic medieval roots, representing an older form of the name Matilda. It derives from the German elements 'macht' meaning might or strength and 'hild' meaning battle, literally translating to 'mighty in battle.' This powerful name was carried by several medieval saints and noblewomen, including Saint Mechtilde of Hackeborn, a 13th-century German mystic and nun. Mechtilde has a distinctly historical quality that sets it apart from modern variants. While extremely rare today, it offers a direct connection to medieval European heritage for those seeking authentic historical names. The three-syllable pronunciation has a rhythmic, almost musical quality despite its strength. Mechtilde might appeal to parents interested in names with substantial historical depth and powerful feminine meanings.
- Maelcorcre
- Malatiah
- Maloucha
- Massy
- Mor
- Morrison
- Moss
- Nesta
Origin:
Welsh variation of AgnesDescription:
This is the most popular Welsh form of Agnes. Variants include Annest and Nest. There was an eleventh century Nest who was known as 'Helen of Wales' for her beauty and the problems it caused.
- Nest
- Oda
Origin:
Scandinavian, short form of OdeliaDescription:
Ada, yes. Ida, maybe. But Oda, a Scandinavian version of Odelia, not really. To English speakers, it sounds too much like "odor".